About Guru

Welcome to the About Guru page, dedicated to sharing the life, teachings, and profound legacy of Sree Narayana Guru.

The Life and Teachings

Sree Narayana Guru was a social reformer, a mystic yogi, a philosopher, a visionary and a poet, all blended into one.His spiritual attainments were used for transforming the society to a new, harmonious and much needed social order. Through many poems and verses (in Sanskrit, Malayalam and Tamil), philosophical thoughts, messages and conversations, he expressed his ideas on the problems faced by society.

Sree Narayana Guru was born in an Indian village, Chempazhanti in Kerala, on 26th of August 1854. After his education in Sanskrit and Ayurveda, he set out in search of truth. He learned Vedic philosophy and Upanishads. Instead of remaining in solitude and enjoying the divine bliss for himself, he opted to utilize his spiritual achievements and wisdom, for the betterment of humanity. He interpreted the essence of Vedic philosophy in its purest perspective and propounded the theory of universal brotherhood of mankind.

Guru’s Biography

The Life Tree of Sree Narayana Guru

Sree Narayana Guru’s life can be seen as a “Life Tree,” symbolizing his growth as a spiritual leader and social reformer. From humble beginnings to his transformative teachings on equality and justice, his journey continues to inspire. Key milestones include his spiritual awakening, the establishment of temples, and his efforts to uplift marginalized communities, leaving a lasting legacy of unity and reform.

August 20, 1856

Beginnings

Sree Narayana Guru is born

Born in Chempazhanthy, Kerala, into a humble Ezhava family, Sree Narayana Guru would go on to challenge societal norms and leave a lasting legacy in spiritual and social reform.

1861-1880

Foundations

Early Life and Education

From an early age, Guru showed a strong interest in spirituality and education, receiving extensive training in Sanskrit, philosophy, and the Vedas under renowned teachers.

1881-1887

Journey

Wanderings and Meditation

Sree Narayana Guru spent several years as a wandering ascetic, meditating in seclusion, visiting holy places, and meeting various spiritual leaders, deepening his spiritual insights.

1888

Milestone

Establishment of Aruvippuram Shiva Temple

Guru consecrated a Shiva idol at Aruvippuram, challenging caste-based temple rituals and priesthood, marking the beginning of his movement for spiritual and social reform.

1903

Leadership

Formation of SNDP Yogam

To promote social and spiritual welfare, Guru founded the Sree Narayana Dharma Paripalana (SNDP) Yogam, which became instrumental in uplifting oppressed communities.

1912

Growth

Foundation of Aluva Advaita Ashram

Guru established the Aluva Advaita Ashram as a hub for education, spiritual growth, and reformist activities, nurturing the development of his movement.

1924

Support

Vaikom Satyagraha

Sree Narayana Guru supported the Vaikom Satyagraha, a protest aimed at ending caste-based discrimination and untouchability, furthering his role as a social reformer.

1927

Progress

Temple Entry Proclamation

The Guruvayur Satyagraha marked a major push for temple entry for lower castes, symbolizing Guru’s influence on advancing social justice in religious spaces.

1928

Unity

Shivagiri Pilgrimage Inauguration

Guru inaugurated the first Shivagiri Pilgrimage, emphasizing spiritual unity and upliftment through education, morality, and self-improvement.

1928-1931

Wisdom

Writings and Teachings

During these years, Guru authored philosophical works such as Atmopadesa Śatakam and Darsanamala, focusing on spiritual enlightenment, unity, and ethical living.

September 20, 1928

Legacy

Passing Away

Sree Narayana Guru passed away at Shivagiri, leaving behind a legacy of spiritual leadership, social reform, and the pursuit of equality and justice.

Wisdom and Legacy of Sree Narayana Guru

Sree Narayana guru is now considered, across the whole world, as one of the most divine individuals, who believed in the ultimate unity of all mankind, irrespective of caste, creed or religion. The new philosophy as represented in the practical teachings of Sree Narayana Guru, aims at unifying, thoughts of all religions.

Sree Narayana Guru had written over 62 books in Sanskrit, Malayalam and Tamil put together.Most popular among them are “Atmopadeshashadhakam” (one hundred verses of self-instruction) written in Malayalam which is widely regarded as a literary and philosophical masterpiece and “Darshanamala” written in Sanskrit. His universally acceptable messages are reflected in these books. Some of Guru’s messages are:-

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“One Caste, One religion, One God for man”.

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“Whatever be the religion, it is enough if man becomes good”.

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“Ask not, think not, and say not caste”.

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“Acts that one performs for one’s own sake should also aim at the good of other men”.

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“Gain freedom through education”.

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“Gain prosperity through industry”.

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“Liquor is poison: make it not, sell it not and drink it not”.

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“Of one in kind, one in faith, one in god is man, of the same womb, one same form, difference none there is at all”.

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